Swiss researchers make microchips that imitate the brain

Well another step forward in computing.

Source

Researchers in Switzerland say they have made microchips that imitate the way our brains process information, unlocking some of the mystery around how the world’s most efficient computer functions.

Scientists at the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, together with colleagues in Germany and the United States, created electronic systems comparable to a human brain both in size, speed and energy consumption, the university said in a statement late Monday.

Just like the brain, their so-called neuromorphic chips are capable of processing and reacting to information in real-time, it said.

I'm amazed when I read tech blogs everyday.

Using neuromorphic chips as artificial neurons, the researchers built networks that can perform tasks requiring short-term memory and decision-making and analytical abilities, Indiveri said.

I mean, just this capability is astounding. We are only a few short years away from having bio-integration of computer parts IMO.

~Tenth

I mean, just this capability is astounding. We are only a few short years away from having bio-integration of computer parts IMO.

Agreed.

I would be interested in seeing if this collection of artificial neurons would respond similarly to the human brain during known events.

For example, I would find it interesting and amusing if we introduced the effects of alcohol on this artificial system. Would it react similarly during the intoxicated state, as a human? Miscalculating the attractiveness of other collection of neurons, over estimating its own intelligence and appeal and finally waking up with this worst hang over known to computer kind?

In all seriousness though, If you introduced a scenario like alcohol consumption, I wonder if it would result in sluggish processing speeds, or more energy consumption or even perhaps a short circuit!

The applications for this technology would be limitless. And the divergent technologies would be equally as awesome.

reply to post by MDDoxs

I would be interested in seeing if this collection of artificial neurons would respond similarly to the human brain during known events.

Indeed. That would interesting. From what I gather it's only being used for real time data and doesn't have the 'long term memory' required to make decisions based on past events, but I assume that's just so they can focus on this particular part.

~Tenth

reply to post by tothetenthpower


Are we talking about mirroring the reactions of the human brain with things as simple has reacting to light? or to Sound?

Those would certainly be short term, stimulus based reactions?

reply to post by MDDoxs


I'm trying to read the journal itself but it's hella complicated.

From what I gather:

Using neuromorphic chips as artificial neurons, the researchers built networks that can perform tasks requiring short-term memory and decision-making and analytical abilities, Indiveri said.

So, if I understand correctly, this thing can think for itself in some capacity.

~Tenth

reply to post by tothetenthpower


I agree I think this is awesome....Our technology level....

But, do you see a point in time with computing we stop trying to make a computer a human? Does this scare you that computers/robots become too much better than humans to where we aren't even needed anymore?

reply to post by Chrisfishenstein


You know I always used to be afraid of the whole Skynet thing. The problem with that, is no scientist, ever is going to create a robot that doesn't have an off switch, or that relies on fuel.

The thing about robotics and advancements in technology is that they don't get done unless humans actually go out and do them. Sure we can program a computer to identify, build databases and make decisions based on relevant data it's accrued and analyzed, but we cant' program it to actually think for itself, without humans imputing something.

Also I think if the situation arose where robots were 'better' than humans, so much so that they were takign over in some respects, we would stop making them.

~Tenth

reply to post by tothetenthpower


I don't know......Humans are needed for now, but what happens when so many are collectively gathered that they can pretty much take over without us? What if solar panels are used? I don't know if fuel or electricity will be required as we delve deeper into advancements in technology to me.....

Could be something even like a fuel cell, just like skynet that lasts a very long time with no human interaction......Not only this, the evil lords behind the takeover will always be around to fuel these......I guess my mind is just wondering off here, but there is always this "what if".....

If a bio part helps the blind see, and your heart work better, fine, however, its not suitable to be embedded into real brain functioning.